Changes to
Empty Property Rating
The Government has announced that there will
be significant changes to the rates charged on empty non-domestic
properties.
From 1 April 2008, most property that has been empty for more
than three months (or six months for a qualifying industrial
property) will no longer receive relief from rates. Empty property
will be liable for 100% non-domestic rates. Currently, empty rate
liability is charged at 50%.
These reforms are aimed at encouraging owners to re-let,
re-develop or sell unused property and so reduce the need for
development on greenfield land.
There will be exceptions for properties owned and intended for
use by charities and community amateur sports clubs. The Government
is still considering possible reforms for listed buildings.
A meeting will be held on Wednesday 30 January 2008,
at 6pm, in the Council Chamber, Council Offices, Cecil
Street, Margate. Officers from the Council and the
Valuation Office Agency will be there to give you further
information and answer questions.
If you have any questions or queries please contact
the Revenues office on 01843 577557or
e-mail: Business.Rates@thanet.gov.uk.